Tendonitis Treatment in Glen Carbon, IL | Physical Therapy for Tendonitis

Tendonitis Treatment in Glen Carbon, IL | Axes Physical Therapy

Tendonitis treatment in Glen Carbon, IL. Tendonitis can greatly reduce our lifestyle and ability to enjoy the things we find the most joy in. Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options available to lessen pain and stiffness and get you back to the type of life you want. If you’re dealing with tendonitis, don’t suffer in silence. Seek help from a licensed Glen Carbon, IL physical therapist at Axes who can create a personalized treatment plan to get you back on track. Reach out to the Axes location nearest you or contact us online to request an appointment in Glen Carbon, IL and start your journey towards healing.

If you think you may have tendonitis in Glen Carbon, IL, come see us for an injury screening. If your physician has already diagnosed you with tendonitis, ask them if physical therapy in Glen Carbon, IL is safe for you. Together with you and your doctor, we’ll form a team to focus on your healthy recovery and get you back to the activities you love.

What Is Tendonitis

Tendonitis is a common issue that affects half) of physically active adults. Tendonitis occurs when the tendons become swollen or irritated, causing pain and discomfort. Tendons are the tough cords that attach muscles to bones, and they are extremely important for our body’s movement. Tendonitis can occur in any part of the body, but it is most common in joints and extremities.

Identification of tendonitis involves a physical exam by a healthcare professional in Glen Carbon, IL. Medical imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI, may be needed to verify the diagnosis and extent of the condition.

Tendonitis Treatment in Glen Carbon, IL | Injury Rehab | Physical Therapy Near Glen Carbon

Types of Tendonitis And Their Symptoms | Tendonitis Treatment in Glen Carbon, IL

Tendonitis can occur to any tendon in the body, in a range of circumstances. The types of tendonitis our Glen Carbon, IL physical therapists most frequently deal with are:

Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body, and it is used when you walk, run, and jump. Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that affects runners and athletes who play sports that require jumping or abrupt shifts in direction. Being over 30 and having flat feet are known risk factors.

Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include pain and stiffness in the back of your foot, especially after you’ve been off your feet for a period. The pain may also be present during activity, and it can get worse over time if you don’t seek out treatment.

Patellar Tendonitis

The patellar tendon affixes the kneecap to the tibia, and it allows you to straighten your leg. Patellar tendonitis, also called jumper’s knee, is a condition that affects athletes who participate in sports that involve jumping, like basketball or volleyball.

Symptoms of patellar tendonitis include pain and tenderness around and within your kneecap, especially during activity. The pain can get worse when climbing stairs or after if your legs have been bent for a period.

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surrounds the shoulder joint, and it helps in the movement of the arm. Rotator cuff tendonitis is a common condition that affects people who, whether for work, sport, or pleasure, perform repetitive overhead arm movements, such as in tennis or painting.

Symptoms of rotator cuff tendonitis include soreness and weakness in the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm or reaching behind the back. The pain may also intensify at night or if you sleep on the injured shoulder.

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that results from aggravation or welling of the tendons located on the thumb side of the wrist. It is more common in women than men and it is often caused by repeating the samehand movements movements, such as when sewing or playing an instrument.

Symptoms of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis include pain and inflammation at the base of the thumb, and difficulty a “sticking” or “snapping” feeling when moving the thumb or wrist.

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, also referred to as lateral epicondylitis, is the inflammation or microtearing of the tendons that bend your wrist backward away from your palm. It is most frequently due to repetitive wrist and arm movements, such as playing tennis or using a screwdriver.

Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain and soreness on the outer part of the elbow, and weak grip strength.

Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a type of tendonitis that affects the inner side of the elbow. It occurs frequently in golfers, hence the name. But, it can also be the result of other repetitive movements. The excess stress on the tendons in the forearm and elbow can cause microtears, leading to swelling and pain.

Symptoms of Golfer’s elbow include pain and soreness on the inside part of your arm, which occasionally spreads to the forearm and wrist. There may also be weakness and stiffness in the affected area, making it difficult to carry things or perform normal activities.

Tendonitis Treatment in Glen Carbon, IL: Risk Factors

There are numerous risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing tendonitis, including:

Repeated motions and overuse — Repeating the same motion over and over, such as typing or painting, can cause strain on the tendons and cause tendonitis.
Overuse — Similar to repeated motions, overuse refers to the overworking a muscle without allowing your body to recover. This can occur from engaging in a particular activity or sport for an extended period without taking breaks, or from suddenly increasing the intensity or duration of an activity without proper conditioning.
Age — Tendonitis is more common in people who are middle aged and older as tendons tear more easily as we age.
Poor posture — Poor posture can put strain on the tendons and muscles in the neck, shoulders, and arms, increasing the risk of developing tendonitis.
Lack of flexibility — Individuals who are not regularly stretching or engaging in activities that promote flexibility may be at higher risk of developing tendonitis.
Acute injuries — Tendonitis can also occur because of a sudden injury or trauma to the affected area.
Muscle imbalances — Unbalances may arise when stronger muscles in some muscles than others, which puts more strain on the tendons.
Inactivity — Being inactive for long periods of time can weaken the muscles and tendons and make them less flexible, increasing the risk of developing tendonitis.
Medical conditions — Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, can increase the chances of developing tendonitis.
Medications — Certain medications, like corticosteroids or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, can also increase the chances of developing tendonitis.

Although not all cases of tendonitis in Glen Carbon, IL can be avoided, it’s important to know what the risk factors are and take steps to minimize their impact. This may include resting often during strenuous activities, using proper form during exercise, understanding proper posture, and staying active. Furthermore, getting treatment for any medical conditions related to tendonitis, or going to physical therapy, can also help keep your tendons flexible and strong enough to not be harmed.

Physical Therapy in Glen Carbon, IL for Tendonitis Treatment

Physical therapy is usually the first and best way tendonitis is treated. Your Glen Carbon, IL physical therapist can help you to develop a personalized physical therapy plan to help ease your pain and discomfort and keep your tendon from becoming more damaged. Below are some physical therapy treatments that help people with tendonitis:

Stretching and strengthening exercises are an important part of physical therapy for tendonitis. These exercises work to improve range of motion and correct any muscle imbalances.
Manual physical therapy is a type of physical therapy that involves hands-on techniques to alleviate pain and improve mobility. Techniques include massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue mobilization.
Ultrasound therapy is a type of physical therapy that uses sound waves to penetrate deep into soft tissue and create a soft heat that increases blood flow and reduces inflammation.
Electrical stimulation is a physical therapy treatment that uses electrical currents to stimulate the muscles and promote healing.
Heat and cold therapy are frequently used in physical therapy for tendonitis. Heat can help to increase blood flow, while cold works to reduce inflammation and ease pain.
Dry needling is refers to inserting tiny needles into specific trigger points in and around the affected tendon. By making tiny tears in your tendon, trigger point dry needling encourages the body to heal itself.
Activity modification as recommended by your physical therapist can reduce pressure on the affected soft tissue. This may include making improvements to your technique or equipment, or taking breaks to rest the affected area.
Education and lifestyle modifications from your physical therapist can provide education on proper ergonomics to help reduce the risk of re-injury. They may also provide guidance on changes to your lifestyle such as diet, exercise, and proper posture to help promote healing.

The goal of physical therapy in the treatment of tendonitis is to decrease pain, inflammation, and stiffness while encouraging flexibility and healing of the injured soft tissue to restore normal function and return you to what you love doing most. In addition to some of the above techniques, we’ll also incorporate injury prevention into your treatments so you reduce the risk of experiencing tendonitis again. Physical therapy can help reduce the risk of recurrence by addressing the root causes of tendonitis. Glen Carbon, IL physical therapists can locate areas of weakness and muscle imbalances that may be contributing to the condition, and implement a customized treatment plan aimed at correcting those issues.

How to Prepare For Your 1st Appointment With a Physical Therapist in Glen Carbon, IL

If you are seeking out physical therapy for tendonitis treatment in Glen Carbon, IL, there are several things you can do to get the most out of your first appointment:

Collect information — Before your appointment, write down information about your symptoms, including when they started, how long they’ve had them, what activities aggravate them, and what, if anything, provides relief. This will help your physical therapist to better understand your condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Wear loose clothing — Your physical therapist may want to see you perform certain exercises during your appointment, so it is important to wear comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement.
Bring any relevant medical records — If you have had any imaging or medical tests done related to your symptoms, bring the records with you to your appointment.
Prepare questions — Write down any questions you may have about your condition, treatment options, what you can do to prevent further injury, or even questions about the physical therapist and their experience. This will help you to make the most out of your appointment, begin a more personalized relationship with your physical therapist, and ensure that all of your concerns are addressed.
Be honest — Be honest with your physical therapist about your symptoms, lifestyle, and any previous injuries or medical conditions. This will help them to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

By taking these steps to prepare for your first physical therapy appointment in Glen Carbon, IL, you can help to ensure that you receive the best treatment for your tendonitis and get back to the activities you love as soon as possible.

Tips to Prevent Tendonitis in Glen Carbon, IL

While not every tendonitis injury is avoidable, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition. Whether participating in a sport or just going about your daily life, here are some tips to help prevent tendonitis in Glen Carbon, IL:

Warm up and cool down
Use proper technique
Gradually increase activity
Take breaks and rest
Stay hydrated
Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Other services we offer in Glen Carbon, IL include:

Tendonitis Treatment in Glen Carbon, IL | Chronic Injury Treatment | Injury Rehab Near Glen Carbon

Call Axes Physical Therapy For Tendonitis Treatment in Glen Carbon, IL

Tendonitis can be an exasperating and weakening injury, but with the right treatment, you can regain optimal movement health. From rest and ice therapy to physical therapy and medications, there are various options available to manage tendonitis and reduce pain. Axes has seen many Glen Carbon, IL patients overcome tendonitis and return to their normal activities with an entirely new outlook on physical activity. If you’re experiencing tendonitis, don’t let it control your life. Contact Axes Physical Therapy in Glen Carbon, IL today to learn how we can help you get back to your active and pain-free lifestyle. Call the location nearest you or contact us online today.

Tendonitis Treatment Glen Carbon, IL